New here but very worried

[Sian74]

Hello Everyone,

Firstly, I'd like to say what a lovely, supportive community this seems to be. Even though I'd obviously rather not be here!

For the last 30 years I've drank too much. Probably 30-40 units a week. There have also been plenty of times when I've not drank as much. Always at least two or three nights off, but on the whole, it's been too much.

Around two years ago I managed to cut down and lost two and a half stone. Then lockdown arrived and I've put a big chunk of that back on as well as piling the units back on.

My general health is fine, but I've been suffering from a pain under my right arm which radiates to the shoulder and upper right side. I don't seem to have any tenderness to the abdomen, itchiness, sickness, loss of appetite, jaundice etc, but I am worried this is my lifestyle finally catching up with me. My BP also seems rather high. Not surprising given the weight gain over the last year.

I've not had a drink now for over a week and I have no intention at the moment of drinking again. Will I stick to that? I hope so, but I'm not sure.

I have an appointment booked with my GP, but Dr Google really doesn't help!

I'll keep you updated and I just hope the eventual news isn't too bad. I have a great job, loving partner, a nice home, and lots of other things I want to do with my life.

Fingers crossed I'll get the chance to continue to enjoy the things I love.

Take care everyone and thanks once again for being such a supportive bunch.

[Hidden]

Hi and welcome Sian,

Its really great that you are making some positive lifestyle choices. Hopefully your GP can arrange some tests, liver blood tests and possibly an ultrasound scan may be useful.

If you'd like to have a chat our nurse helpline is open Mon to Fri 10am to 3pm on 0800 652 7330

[Hidden]

Besides getting tests from your GP you might want to seek support from an alcohol charity like AA or Addaction to help support you on you journey to sobriety. It is possible to abstain and support would always help x

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Great idea

[utep99]

No drinking. Possibly get to a digestive specialist for a liver enzyme test. This will determine where you are at. Even if a fatty liver go lean most suggest a Mediterranean diet. You do not have a death sentence until a specialist says cirrhosis or Liver Cancer and then still it may be years away.